Historical Perspectives: Low Birthweight and Preterm Infants in Indonesia

Ekawaty Lutfia Haksari

doi:10.1542/neo.20-10-e548

This article requires a subscription to view the full text. If you have a subscription you may use the login form below to view the article. Access to this article can also be purchased.

Download PDF

Abbreviations:

AGA:: appropriate for gestational age
CPAP:: continuous positive airway pressure
IVH:: intraventricular hemorrhage
KMC:: kangaroo mother care
LBW:: low birthweight
NEC:: necrotizing enterocolitis
PDA:: patent ductus arteriosus
ROP:: retinopathy of prematurity
SGA:: small for gestational age
SUMMIT:: Supplementation with Multiple Micronutrient Intervention Trial
VLBW:: very low birthweight

Abstract

The incidence of infants with low birthweight (LBW), prematurity, and small for gestational age (SGA) in Indonesia remains high, and the morbidity and mortality in these infants are significant. To study these groups of infants in Indonesia, the author searched PubMed/Medline, the Cochrane Library, Google, Indonesian reports, local publications, and doctoral and master theses in English and Indonesian from 1987 to February 2019. In this review, the development of local reference growth charts of infants born in Indonesia is described, as well as the importance of these curves in defining the prevalence of SGA infants. Some of the risk factors associated with LBW, preterm, and SGA Indonesian infants are described. The author also discusses the effectiveness of specific interventions, such as kangaroo mother care, early initiation of enteral feedings, increased breastfeeding rates, and identifying the optimal timing of hospital discharge. Some of the morbidities associated with LBW infants born in Indonesia are described. Advances in hospital care and postdischarge follow-up of LBW, preterm, and SGA infants born in Indonesia are critical to decrease the morbidity and mortality rates associated with these populations.